Subsidence

This resource includes lecture slides, a reading, and a set of questions related to the topic of land subsidence created by groundwater extraction. An answer key is also provided. At the end of the lecture and questions, students will understand that groundwater extraction causes subsidence, and subsidence is not reversible. They will learn that megacities built on coastal deltas are rapidly sinking, and subsidence far outpaces global sea level rise in these populous areas. The content is appropriate for general education or introductory classes. The reading and questions can be completed as a take-home assignment or as an in-class activity (flipped classroom model).